Who Teaches Urban Social Studies? A Critical Demographic Analysis

• In Event: Quantitative and Mixed Methods Research in Social Studies Education

Abstract

This paper offers a critical demographic portrait of urban social studies teachers in the United States using 2020–21 NTPS data. Drawing on critical demography, we analyze quantitative data to explore the race, gender, certification pathways, preparation experiences, and professional development of social studies educators working in urban settings. Our findings highlight the predominance of white teachers in a field increasingly serving racially diverse students, alongside significant use of alternative certification routes and uneven access to pedagogical training. We argue that these patterns reflect and reinforce structural inequities within teacher education and the broader social studies field. We conclude by discussing implications for researchers and teacher educators seeking to diversify the profession and better prepare teachers for equity-oriented urban classrooms.

Authors

• Amy E. Allen, Virginia Tech

• Thomas O. Williams, Virginia Tech

• David Hicks, Virginia Tech